Generic Information System Builder and Runner

1. A method for developing and maintaining an information system that includes an application environment and a database system, said database system including business components and application components, the method comprising the steps of: a. providing a generic and rigid database (GMD) schema operative to represent all said business components and application components as records physically stored in a storage mechanism included in said schema; and b. using said generic and rigid schema that includes general-generic tables and which is used to build, run and maintain said information system and to effect operations on said business components and application components in a codeless way, by adding, deleting or changing values in said records.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said step of providing a generic and rigid schema operative to represent all said business and application components as said records includes i. providing a conceptual model operative to provide a logical representation of said GMD schema and said records; ii. providing a relational database connectivity (RDBC) mechanism operative to provide connectivity between a traditional application and said records, related to different record versions; and iii. providing a storage mechanism operative to provide physical storage of said records.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said step of providing a GMD schema further includes providing a plurality of sub-schemas, each said sub-schema representing a generic structure capable of supporting any functionality of a relevant sub-aspect of said business and application components.

4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the step of providing, in the application environment, at least one editor-manager coupled to said GMD schema and operative to build, run and maintain the information system and to effect operations on said business and application components in a codeless way, by changing values in said records.

5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the steps of providing, in the database system, business and application data related to said business and application components and providing a management system operative to serve as a kernel of said database system.